Religious Education - Key Learning Area in Focus

The Religious Education department is committed to guiding students on their academic and spiritual journeys. Our curriculum offers a comprehensive program that covers Catholic and Christian teachings, World religions, First Nation Spiritualities, and contemporary social justice issues. The aim is to equip students with essential knowledge and skills, such as critical thinking, analysis, and effective writing, preparing them for Stage 6 and beyond.

A distinctive feature of our curriculum is its relevance to students' lives. By connecting religious teachings to the contemporary world, we make the content engaging and applicable, helping students see the practical implications of their learning.

Recently, our Year 11 Studies of Religion students participated in two significant excursions that brought their classroom learning to life. The first was a visit to the Gallipoli Mosque in Auburn, where students were struck by the mosque's grand architecture and warmly welcomed by the staff. They learned about the mosque’s construction, funded by both Muslim and non-Muslim communities, which emphasised the importance of unity and community across different faiths.

The second excursion was to the Sunnataram Forest Monastery in Bundanoon, where students met with the Venerable Phra Mana. Here, they explored the real-world application of Buddhist teachings, gaining insights into mindfulness, compassion, and the pursuit of inner peace. This experience demonstrated how religious principles can deeply influence personal and communal wellbeing.

These excursions, along with cultural activities like dining at local restaurants, provided students with a broader understanding of diverse cultural landscapes and strengthened their bonds as a cohort. Through our RE curriculum and these immersive experiences, we aim to inspire students to engage with the spiritual and moral dimensions of life, preparing them for the future both academically and personally.